Recipes • August 14, 2026

Garlic Butter Sausage & Potato Skillet

by Ronda Swanson

Garlic Butter Sausage and Potato Skillet made with browned smoked sausage, tender baby potatoes, garlic butter, Parmesan, and herbs.

Garlic Butter Sausage & Potato Skillet

This Garlic Butter Sausage & Potato Skillet is a quick and satisfying dinner made with smoky sausage, tender baby potatoes, garlic, butter, and simple seasonings. Everything comes together in one skillet for a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

With just 10 minutes of prep and about 25 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner on the table in around 35 minutes. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley at the end for even more flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage & Potato Skillet

This easy skillet dinner is one you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation:

Made in one skillet for easy cleanup
Ready in about 35 minutes
Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients
Smoky sausage and potatoes make it hearty and filling
Garlic butter adds tons of flavor without a complicated sauce
Easy to customize with vegetables
Makes enough for 4–6 servings

Garlic Butter Sausage & Potato Skillet Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

14 oz smoked sausage, sliced
1½ lbs baby potatoes, quartered
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, optional
Chopped parsley, optional

Instructions

Place the quartered baby potatoes in a large skillet and add about ½ cup of water.
Cover and cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to soften.
Drain any remaining water from the skillet.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the potatoes.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned.
Add the butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and everything is coated in the garlic butter.
Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!

What Kind of Sausage Works Best?

Smoked sausage is perfect for this recipe because it’s already cooked and only needs to be heated and browned in the skillet. Kielbasa is another great option.

You can use beef, pork, turkey, or chicken smoked sausage depending on what your family prefers or what you already have in the refrigerator.

Why Add Water to the Potatoes?

Adding a small amount of water and covering the skillet allows the potatoes to steam and soften before they’re browned with the sausage.

This helps the potatoes cook all the way through without burning the outside. Once they’re starting to become tender, simply drain any remaining water and continue with the recipe.

Easy Vegetables to Add

Want to turn this sausage and potato skillet into an even more complete meal? It’s easy to add vegetables.

Green beans, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus would all pair well with the garlic butter and smoked sausage.

For vegetables that cook quickly, add them toward the end so they don’t become too soft.

Don’t Skip the Garlic Butter

The garlic butter is what brings this simple skillet together. Butter, fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder coat the browned sausage and tender potatoes with plenty of savory flavor.

The Parmesan is optional, but it’s a delicious finishing touch if you have some on hand.

What to Serve With Sausage and Potatoes

This Garlic Butter Sausage & Potato Skillet is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, especially if you add a vegetable to the skillet.

You could also serve it with a simple side salad, green beans, steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or warm dinner rolls.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover sausage and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat for the best texture. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick lunch or dinner.

An Easy One-Skillet Dinner

When you need something simple but still want a flavorful homemade dinner, this Garlic Butter Sausage & Potato Skillet is an easy choice.

Smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and plenty of savory garlic butter come together in one pan in about 35 minutes. Finish everything with Parmesan and parsley, and you have a hearty weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Recipes • August 14, 2026

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake

by Ronda Swanson

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Bake made with shredded chicken, tender broccoli, rice, and melted cheddar cheese.

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake

This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake is the kind of simple, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, broccoli, creamy chicken soup, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese come together in one casserole for a filling meal the whole family can enjoy.

With just 10 minutes of prep, this easy chicken and rice casserole is also a great way to use leftover chicken and cooked rice. Mix everything together, top it with cheese, and let the oven do the rest!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake

This easy casserole has everything you need for a simple family dinner:

Only 10 minutes of prep
Chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese all in one dish
Great way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
Works with fresh or frozen broccoli
Simple, budget-friendly ingredients
Makes 6 servings
Easy to prepare ahead of time
Creamy, cheesy, and family-friendly

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
1 can cream of chicken soup
½ cup chicken broth
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir until everything is evenly combined.
Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is completely melted.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest options for this cheesy chicken casserole. Simply remove the skin, shred the chicken, and measure out about two cups.

Leftover baked, grilled, or slow cooker chicken will work just as well. Using precooked chicken is what makes this recipe so quick to assemble.

Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?

You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli in this chicken and broccoli rice casserole.

If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to completely cook it first. Breaking larger florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces will help distribute the broccoli throughout the casserole and make it easier to serve.

What Kind of Rice Works Best?

White rice, jasmine rice, basmati rice, or brown rice can all be used as long as the rice is already cooked.

This recipe is especially convenient when you have leftover rice in the refrigerator. Just measure out two cups and add it directly to the casserole mixture.

Easy Ways to Customize This Casserole

One of the best things about a chicken and rice bake is how easy it is to adjust based on what you already have.

Try swapping the cheddar for Colby Jack or a cheddar blend. You could also add frozen peas, carrots, cauliflower, or mixed vegetables.

For a little crunch, sprinkle buttery cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs over the cheese before the final 10–15 minutes of baking.

What to Serve With Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Since this casserole already has chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese, it works perfectly well as a complete meal on its own.

If you’d like to add something on the side, try a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, fresh fruit, or warm dinner rolls.

Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Because the casserole will be cold when it goes into the oven, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Make sure the center is hot before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for an easy lunch or quick dinner. If the casserole seems a little dry after refrigeration, add a small splash of chicken broth before reheating.

An Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole for Busy Nights

This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake brings chicken, rice, vegetables, and plenty of melted cheddar together in one easy casserole.

It’s creamy, cheesy, filling, and requires only about 10 minutes of hands-on prep. Whether you’re using leftover chicken and rice or starting with a rotisserie chicken, it’s an easy dinner to keep in your rotation for those nights when you need something simple and satisfying.

Sunday Sweets • August 14, 2026

Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler

by Ronda Swanson

Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler

If you love warm apple desserts but don’t want to spend hours baking from scratch, this Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler is about to become a favorite. Refrigerated cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling come together with cinnamon and butter for an incredibly simple dessert that’s warm, gooey, and full of cozy cinnamon-apple flavor.

With just 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep, this easy apple cobbler is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dessert, holiday mornings, or anytime you need a sweet treat without a lot of work. And the cinnamon roll icing drizzled over the warm cobbler makes it even better!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler

This simple dessert has a lot going for it:

Only 5 ingredients
Just 10 minutes of prep
Uses refrigerated cinnamon rolls and canned apple pie filling
No homemade dough required
Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls in every bite
Perfect for fall and holiday gatherings
Delicious served warm straight from the oven

Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls
1 can apple pie filling
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Icing from the cinnamon roll packages

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
Open the cinnamon roll packages and set the icing aside for later.
Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters.
Add the cinnamon roll pieces to a large bowl with the apple pie filling.
Add the cinnamon and melted butter and gently toss everything together until evenly combined.
Spread the cinnamon roll and apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cinnamon roll pieces in the center are completely cooked through and golden brown.
Remove the cobbler from the oven and drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top while it’s still warm.
Serve warm and enjoy!

How Do You Know When Cinnamon Roll Cobbler Is Done?

The top will become beautifully golden as it bakes, but be sure to check the cinnamon roll pieces toward the center of the baking dish before removing it from the oven.

Because they’re surrounded by apple pie filling, the center pieces can take longer to bake than the ones around the edges. They should look cooked and fluffy rather than raw or doughy.

Easy Ways to Make It Even Better

This Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler is delicious exactly as written, but it’s also easy to dress up.

For a little crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. You could also add a pinch of nutmeg or extra cinnamon for even more warm spice.

And if you’re serving it for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream over the warm cobbler is hard to beat.

Can I Use a Different Pie Filling?

Absolutely. While apple and cinnamon rolls are a natural combination, you can experiment with other canned pie fillings.

Try peach, cherry, or blueberry pie filling for an easy variation using the same basic recipe.

Is Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler Breakfast or Dessert?

Why choose? The cinnamon rolls make this sweet enough for dessert, but it would also be delicious for a special breakfast or brunch.

Serve it warm alongside coffee for a weekend breakfast, or add vanilla ice cream for an easy after-dinner dessert.

How to Store Leftovers

Cover leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler or transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Warm individual portions in the microwave before serving to soften the cinnamon rolls and make the apple filling warm and gooey again.

A Simple 5-Ingredient Apple Dessert

This Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler proves that a delicious dessert doesn’t need a long ingredient list. Refrigerated cinnamon rolls, apple pie filling, butter, and cinnamon bake together into a warm, comforting treat before everything gets topped with sweet cinnamon roll icing.

With only five ingredients and about 10 minutes of hands-on prep, it’s an easy dessert to keep in your back pocket whenever you’re craving something sweet, warm, and full of cinnamon-apple flavor.

Recipes • August 14, 2026

BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizzas

by Ronda Swanson

BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizzas

These Easy BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizzas are perfect when you’re craving pizza but don’t want to deal with making homemade dough. Soft naan or flatbread is topped with tangy BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese, then baked until the cheese is melted and the edges are perfectly crisp.

With just 10 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes in the oven, these BBQ chicken flatbread pizzas make a quick weeknight dinner, easy lunch, or fun family pizza night.

Why You’ll Love These BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizzas

This is an easy recipe to keep on hand for busy nights when you need dinner fast.

Ready in about 25 minutes
No homemade pizza dough required
Great way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Perfect for a quick family dinner
Each person can customize their own flatbread
Minimal prep and cleanup

Easy BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

4 large naan or flatbreads
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
¾ cup BBQ sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Thinly sliced red onion, optional
Ranch dressing for drizzling, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Arrange the naan or flatbreads on a large baking sheet.
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with about ½ cup of BBQ sauce and toss until evenly coated.
Spread the remaining BBQ sauce over each flatbread.
Divide the BBQ chicken evenly between the flatbreads.
Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the chicken.
Add thinly sliced red onion, if desired.
Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the flatbread are crisp.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with ranch dressing, if desired.
Slice and serve warm.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Any cooked shredded chicken will work for these BBQ chicken pizzas. Rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest options and makes this recipe especially quick.

You can also use leftover grilled, baked, or slow cooker chicken. It’s a great way to turn leftover chicken into an entirely different meal the next night.

Naan vs. Flatbread for Pizza

Both work well! Naan tends to be a little thicker and softer, giving you a slightly chewy pizza crust. A thinner flatbread will become crispier around the edges.

Since the crust is already cooked, there’s no waiting for dough to rise or worrying about rolling it out. Just add your toppings and bake.

Easy BBQ Chicken Pizza Toppings

The combination of BBQ chicken and melted cheese is delicious on its own, but you can easily customize each pizza.

Try adding thinly sliced red onion, bacon, jalapeños, pineapple, diced bell peppers, or fresh cilantro. A drizzle of ranch dressing after baking adds an extra creamy finish.

You could even set out several toppings and let everyone make their own flatbread pizza.

What to Serve With BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza

These flatbread pizzas are filling enough to serve on their own, but you can easily add a side for a complete dinner.

A simple garden salad, Caesar salad, fresh fruit, roasted vegetables, or raw veggies with ranch all pair well with BBQ chicken pizza.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftover BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

For the best texture, reheat the pizza in the oven or air fryer until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave individual slices when you need something quick, although the crust will stay softer.

A Quick Pizza Night Dinner

These Easy BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizzas give you all the cheesy, saucy goodness of BBQ chicken pizza without the work of making pizza dough from scratch.

With crispy flatbread, tender BBQ chicken, mozzarella, and cheddar, they’re ready in about 25 minutes and easy enough for even the busiest weeknight. Plus, everyone can add their favorite toppings and make their pizza exactly how they like it.

Recipes • August 14, 2026

Baked Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups

by Ronda Swanson

Baked Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups

These Baked Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups take everything you love about creamy chicken Alfredo and turn it into an easy, cheesy baked pasta dinner. Tender lasagna noodles are filled with shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and Italian seasonings, then rolled up and baked under even more creamy Alfredo sauce and cheese.

With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven, these chicken Alfredo lasagna roll-ups are a great option for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you’re craving cheesy comfort food.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups

This simple baked pasta recipe is one the whole family can enjoy.

Ready in about 40 minutes
Creamy, cheesy, and filling
Uses cooked shredded chicken for quick prep
Easy way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
Makes 6 generous servings
Simple ingredients that are easy to find
Great alternative to traditional lasagna

Baked Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 jar Alfredo sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until tender. Drain and carefully lay the noodles flat.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, about ½ cup Alfredo sauce, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Spread the chicken Alfredo mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle.
Starting at one end, carefully roll up each noodle.
Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the chicken Alfredo roll-ups seam-side down in the prepared dish.
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the roll-ups.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes, or until the sauce is hot and bubbly and the cheese is completely melted.
Serve warm and enjoy!

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Any cooked shredded chicken works well for this recipe. Leftover baked or grilled chicken is a great option, and rotisserie chicken makes these Alfredo roll-ups especially quick to prepare.

You can also cook chicken breasts ahead of time, shred them, and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the roll-ups.

Tips for Making Lasagna Roll-Ups

Cook the lasagna noodles just until they’re tender enough to roll. Overcooking them can make them more likely to tear when you’re adding the filling.

After draining the noodles, lay them flat on parchment paper or a clean surface instead of stacking them. This helps prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the chicken filling.

When assembling the dish, place each roll seam-side down so it stays together while baking.

What to Serve With Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups

Because these Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are rich and creamy, they pair especially well with a lighter vegetable or salad.

Try serving them with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple garden salad. Garlic bread or breadsticks are also delicious for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce.

Can I Make Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups earlier in the day, cover the baking dish, and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.

If you’re baking them directly from the refrigerator, they may need a few additional minutes in the oven to heat completely through.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Baked Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover them and warm them in the oven until heated through. Adding a small spoonful of Alfredo sauce before reheating can help keep the pasta creamy.

An Easy Cheesy Chicken Dinner

These Baked Chicken Alfredo Roll-Ups are an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a comforting family dinner. Each lasagna noodle is filled with creamy chicken and cheese, rolled up, covered in Alfredo sauce, and baked until bubbly.

If your family loves chicken Alfredo and cheesy pasta, this is definitely a recipe worth adding to your dinner rotation.

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 14, 2026

Follow the Grub: Where Munchie Junkie Is Popping Up This Week

by Ronda Swanson

Where to Find Munchie Junkie Grub Truck This Week

If a giant fresh-squeezed lemonade, a hot dog piled with toppings, or a cloud of cotton candy sounds like the perfect summer treat, Munchie Junkie Grub Truck is making several stops around the Spokane and northeastern Washington area this week.

Known as an Eastern Washington favorite, Munchie Junkie serves up fun, classic grub-truck food, including huge hand-pressed lemonades, cotton candy, hot dogs, chili dogs and more, with gluten-free options available.

Here’s where you can catch them this week.

Tuesday & Thursday: Deer Park

Henery Hardware in Deer Park
11 a.m.–3 p.m.

If you’re running errands in Deer Park, this might be a good excuse to plan your lunch stop at the same time.

Friday: Chewelah Farmers Market

Chewelah Farmers Market
11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Friday takes the truck north to the Chewelah Farmers Market at Chewelah City Park. The market runs Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during its 2026 season, so you can grab lunch and spend a little time browsing local produce, baked goods, handmade items and other market finds.

Saturday: Airway Heights Days

Airway Heights Days
Airway Heights
Approximately 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Saturday’s stop is Airway Heights Days, where Munchie Junkie plans to be serving up its menu during the community festivities.

The Saturday time was provided by Munchie Junkie as approximately 10 a.m.–3 p.m., so I recommend confirming the event schedule before heading out.

A Fun Local Food Truck to Put on Your List

One of my favorite things about summer around Spokane is how many opportunities there are to discover locally owned businesses while exploring communities outside the city.

Munchie Junkie Grub Truck is a perfect example. Whether you’re craving a cold lemonade on a hot afternoon, grabbing a hot dog for lunch or treating the kids to cotton candy, you have several chances to track them down this week.

You can also follow Munchie Junkie Grub Truck on Facebook for their latest locations and updates.

And if you’re exploring Spokane and the surrounding communities because you’re thinking about making a move, downsizing, or finding a home that better fits your next chapter, I’d be happy to help

What's New in Spokane • August 14, 2026

North Spokane Is Getting a Fantasy-Themed Cafe — Meet Honey Spell Cafe

by Ronda Swanson

Honey Spell Cafe opening soon, featuring an elegant navy-and-gold coffee cup filled with a latte and decorative latte art.

There’s something new brewing in North Spokane, and this one comes with a little bit of magic.

Honey Spell Cafe is hoping to open September 3 at 10115 N Newport Highway, bringing coffee, tea, pastries, breads, and a cozy fantasy-themed gathering place to North Spokane.

But this isn’t being created as just another place to grab a cup of coffee.

A Cozy New Gathering Place in North Spokane

Honey Spell Cafe is opening along the busy Newport Highway corridor in North Spokane, an area filled with restaurants, shopping, services, and neighborhoods and just a short distance from Whitworth University.

The location makes it an easy stop for people who live, work, shop, or go to school on the north side—and Honey Spell hopes to give them a reason to stay awhile.

The vision is to create a warm, imaginative environment where people can meet friends, enjoy something from the cafe, and connect with others. A packed schedule of events centered around building community and helping people meet one another is also planned.

Coffee, Pastries & a Little Fantasy

Honey Spell Cafe plans to serve coffee, tea, pastries, and breads, but the fantasy-inspired atmosphere may be what really sets it apart.

Instead of simply grabbing a drink and heading out the door, the idea is to create the kind of cozy place where you can settle in, spend an afternoon, meet someone for coffee, or come back for one of the cafe’s community events.

When Is Honey Spell Cafe Opening?

If everything stays on schedule, Honey Spell Cafe hopes to open September 3.

The initial plan is to be open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., with the cafe closed on Mondays.

As with any new business opening, dates and hours can change, so check for the latest information before heading over.

Another Reason to Explore North Spokane

I love watching locally owned businesses bring something different to Spokane’s neighborhoods. Places like Honey Spell Cafe can become more than somewhere to get coffee—they can become part of what gives a neighborhood its personality.

With its North Spokane location, fantasy-inspired atmosphere, community events, and emphasis on bringing people together, Honey Spell Cafe sounds like a fun addition to the north side.

I’ll be watching as September 3 gets closer, and I can’t wait to see what they create.

And if you’re exploring North Spokane because you’re thinking about buying, selling, or making a move, I’d be happy to help you navigate the neighborhoods and housing options throughout the area.

What's New in Spokane • August 13, 2026

Michael Carbonaro Is Bringing His Magic to Spokane This November

by Ronda Swanson

Michael Carbonaro coming to Spokane for a live magic show

If you’ve ever watched The Carbonaro Effect and wondered what it would be like to see Michael Carbonaro perform in person, you’ll get your chance this fall.

Michael Carbonaro is bringing his Wonderboy tour to Northern Quest Resort & Casino on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

The show combines magic, illusions and comedy — the kind of performance where you know there has to be an explanation for what you just saw, but good luck figuring it out.

Michael Carbonaro at Northern Quest

Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Doors: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Pend Oreille Pavilion at Northern Quest Resort & Casino in Airway Heights
Tickets: Starting at $49
Ages: All ages

Carbonaro is best known for his hidden-camera television series The Carbonaro Effect, where he performs seemingly impossible tricks on unsuspecting people while pretending everything happening is completely normal.

His live Wonderboy show brings that same sense of surprise to the stage, mixing illusions with comedy and plenty of audience interaction.

If you’re looking for something different to do in Spokane this fall — especially something the whole family can attend — this one might be worth putting on the calendar.

Tickets and show information are available directly through Northern Quest Resort & Casino.

And if you’re thinking about making a move in the Spokane area, I’m always happy to help with the real estate side of things, too.

What's New in Spokane • August 13, 2026

Trader Joe’s Is Coming to Spokane Valley

by Ronda Swanson

Trader Joe’s coming to Spokane Valley, Washington

Good news for Trader Joe’s fans in the Valley: Spokane Valley is getting its first Trader Joe’s.

The new store is going into the former Shopko building at 13414 E. Sprague Ave. Trader Joe’s now lists the location on its official website as “Coming Soon.”

When Will It Open?

There isn’t an official opening date yet. Trader Joe’s hasn’t announced one, so for now, we’ll just have to wait a little longer for the details.

What to Expect

The Spokane Valley store will have all the things Trader Joe’s shoppers already know and love — produce, bakery items, meat and dairy, along with its popular private-label foods, frozen meals, snacks and seasonal finds.

The store’s official page also lists beer, wine and liquor among the planned offerings.

A First for Spokane Valley

There are already two Trader Joe’s stores in Spokane, but this will be the first location in Spokane Valley. That’s great news for Valley shoppers who won’t have to drive into Spokane for their Trader Joe’s favorites anymore.

It’s also nice to see a new use coming to the former Shopko space along East Sprague.

Now the important question: What’s the first thing you’re buying when the doors open?

And if you’re thinking about a move in Spokane or Spokane Valley, I’m always happy to help with the real estate side of things, too.

What's New in Spokane • August 13, 2026

Sakura & Sushi: Experience an Evening in Japan Near Spokane

by Ronda Swanson

Fresh salmon and tuna sushi for Sakura & Sushi: An Evening in Japan near Spokane.

If your usual dinner plans are starting to feel a little too predictable, I found something happening near Spokane that is definitely not your average night out.

On Sunday, September 20, 2026, Ignite is hosting Sakura & Sushi: An Evening in Japan at The Vivacious Grove in Airway Heights.

And they’re not just serving sushi.

The centerpiece of the evening is an entire tuna brought in from Japan, which a professional sushi chef will break down in front of guests before transforming it into fresh sushi.

You get dinner and a show — and possibly a chance to roll up your sleeves and make some sushi yourself.

An Evening Built Around Food and Community

Sakura & Sushi runs from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, and this is actually the second time Ignite has hosted the experience.

After a successful first event, they’re bringing it back with another evening centered around Japanese food, conversation and community.

Guests will be able to watch the chef demonstrate the process of breaking down the tuna and preparing sushi, learn more about the craft behind what they’re eating and enjoy the finished meal together.

And if you’ve always wondered whether you could make a decent sushi roll yourself, you’ll have an opportunity to give it a try.

It sounds like the kind of night where the experience is every bit as important as what’s on the plate.

Who Is Ignite?

There’s also an interesting organization behind the event.

Ignite creates communities for young adults, primarily those in their 20s, 30s and 40s, centered around shared interests, activities and Christian faith.

Their approach is pretty simple: instead of expecting relationships to develop only in traditional settings, Ignite brings people together through things they already enjoy.

That can mean outdoor adventures, sports, social gatherings, food experiences and events like Sakura & Sushi.

Ignite describes its communities as places “where faith and hobbies intersect,” with an emphasis on building genuine friendships while creating opportunities to explore and grow in Christian faith.

The organization has a presence in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area as well as communities in several other cities around the country.

You can learn more about Ignite here.

A Pretty Unusual Spokane-Area Date Night

One reason this event caught my attention is that it’s different.

We have plenty of great restaurants around Spokane, but there’s something fun about going somewhere specifically for an experience you wouldn’t normally have.

Watching a professional sushi chef break down a whole tuna from Japan certainly qualifies.

It could make a fun date night, an evening with friends or an opportunity to meet some new people while doing something outside your normal routine.

And because it’s happening in Airway Heights, you don’t have to travel far from Spokane to do it.

Tickets Work a Little Differently

Instead of charging one standard admission price, Ignite is offering donation-based tickets.

The organization estimates that the actual cost of putting on the experience is approximately $40 per person, and those who are able to contribute more can help offset the cost for other attendees.

Tickets are being released in tiers, with prices increasing as the event gets closer. The first 50 presale tickets have already been claimed, so this may be one of those events where waiting until the last minute isn’t the best strategy.

Check current ticket availability for Sakura & Sushi here.

Sakura & Sushi: What You Need to Know

Sakura & Sushi: An Evening in Japan

Sunday, September 20, 2026
6:00–9:00 PM

The Vivacious Grove
12402 Sprague Ave.
Airway Heights, WA 99001

Expect a whole-tuna demonstration, freshly prepared sushi, a shared meal, opportunities to learn about sushi preparation and a chance to try making your own roll.

Get event details and reserve your spot here.

This Is Why I Love Finding Things to Do Around Spokane

You could live in the Spokane area for years and still discover something happening that makes you say, Wait — we have that here?

That’s part of what I love about sharing Homegrown Spokane.

Sometimes it’s a restaurant tucked away in a neighborhood you don’t visit often. Sometimes it’s a local business doing something creative. And sometimes it’s a Sunday night in Airway Heights where someone is breaking down an entire tuna from Japan while a room full of people waits to eat it.

Those are the things that make a community interesting.

I’ll keep looking for them so you don’t have to.

And if exploring Spokane has you thinking about something bigger — selling your longtime home, downsizing, moving to a different part of town or simply wondering what your home might be worth today — I’m always happy to be a local real estate resource, too.